End User: Mr. Luis Herrera | Engineering Manager | MetalForm Diseño y Corte (Mexico City, Mexico)
MetalForm Diseño y Corte, a Mexico City-based sheet metal fabrication company specializing in architectural and decorative metalwork, recently partnered with GUNNARPRESS to develop a custom wavy texture die set. Designed specifically for press brake forming, this tooling has been successfully implemented in the production of elevator panels, decorative cladding, and stainless steel wall elements, receiving highly positive feedback from both operators and end clients.
Project Background: Adding Texture Through Precision Bending
In the architectural field, clients are increasingly seeking aesthetic surface treatments on metal panels. MetalForm aimed to deliver visually dynamic, wave-like patterns on stainless steel and aluminum sheets without relying on costly embossing or rolling processes. However, conventional press brake dies are typically designed for flat, angular, or standard radius bends, lacking the ability to form continuous surface textures.
The client approached GUNNARPRESS with specific requirements:
Ability to produce consistent wave-like texture across 0.8–1.5 mm stainless steel and aluminum sheets
No damage to surface finishes or protective films
Compatibility with European-style press brake tooling systems for seamless integration
High repeatability and industrial production readiness
GUNNARPRESS Custom Tooling Solution: Wavy/Corrugating Upper & Lower Dies
After reviewing design drawings and reference samples, the GUNNARPRESS engineering team designed a custom wavy/Corrugating die set with precise sinusoidal geometry. Key features include:
Matched upper and lower die profiles to form a symmetrical wave pattern in a single bending operation
Smooth curve transitions to avoid material stress, cracking, or wrinkling
Mirror-polished die surfaces with optional Teflon or nylon inserts to protect decorative sheet finishes and allow film-on bending
Segmented, modular tooling structure for easy replacement or pattern changeover
Made from 42CrMo , heat-treated to HRC60 for long life and consistent performance
Results: Architectural Texture with Manufacturing Efficiency
Upon installation, the tooling was immediately put into production for architectural panel fabrication. Within the first month, MetalForm completed several major orders, including interior wall panels and decorative elevator surfaces. The dies performed reliably, delivering clean and consistent textures.
Mr. Luis Herrera shared his feedback:
“The wavy die from GUNNARPRESS brought our design concepts to life. The texture is consistent and beautiful. Most importantly, we can produce high-end decorative panels with repeatability and efficiency — something previously only possible through costly embossing methods.”
By integrating texture forming directly into the bending process, the customer eliminated the need for secondary forming or stamping equipment, significantly reducing production cost while expanding design capabilities.
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